Flights to Ranes, Normandy from NT$41,362

No matter where you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you prepare well enough. Take a peek at these handy hints that will help get your Ranes vacation started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First and foremost, pack in your passport, official ID, bank cards and vital medications. Next, you'll want some entertainment to while away the time. A thrilling novel and a phone filled with your favorite movies are some terrific options. If you hope to catch more than just forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some cleansing wipes to ensure you step off the plane feeling fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Check carefully that you don't have a Swiss Army knife lurking in one of the zippers of your hand luggage. Other prohibited items include explosive or flammable substances, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an aircraft are no place for a fashion parade. Dress in comfortable layers and go for shoes that are flat, roomy and easy to slip on and off.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect some passengers during long-distance flights. Reduce the risks by staying hydrated, keeping your legs and feet moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be prepared before you get to the security gate. That way, you'll be boarding that plane to Ranes in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your vacation off to a great start:

• Security personnel first need to check that you have a valid passport and matching travel documents before you can proceed any further. Have them ready for inspection.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything on you that is likely to set off the scanner's alarm. This includes things like earphones or headphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They'll all need to go on the X-ray conveyor belt.
• All your electronic gadgets, including your phone and laptop, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Any gels or liquids, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when going through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines won't allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked luggage.